Paragraph 1: Introduction to Infinity Microfinance Bank and Leadership Appointments
Infinity Microfinance Bank, a prominent financial institution dedicated to serving the microfinance sector in Nigeria, recently announced key appointments to its leadership team. Mrs. Clara Oloniniyi, a co-founder and pivotal figure in the bank’s growth, has been appointed as the Board Chairman, while Mr. Aweh Ebikeme, a seasoned financial expert with extensive experience at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), joins the board as an Independent Director. These appointments, approved by the CBN, signify a strategic move by the bank to further strengthen its governance and leverage the expertise of these individuals to navigate the dynamic landscape of the microfinance industry.
Paragraph 2: Clara Oloniniyi’s Journey and Contributions to Infinity Microfinance Bank
Mrs. Oloniniyi’s association with Infinity Microfinance Bank spans over two decades, marked by her instrumental role in its evolution from a community savings initiative to a leading microfinance institution. Her journey began in 2001 as co-founder and Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Infinity Community Savings, which later transformed into Infinity Community Bank in 2005. The institution continued its growth trajectory, becoming a unit microfinance bank in 2007 and subsequently a state microfinance bank in 2013. Under her leadership, the bank witnessed remarkable financial progress, with its paid-up capital increasing from N20 million in 2007 to over N1 billion by 2020.
Paragraph 3: Oloniniyi’s Leadership Style and Impact on the Microfinance Sector
Mrs. Oloniniyi is recognized for her pragmatic leadership style, astute management of resources, and deep understanding of the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector. Her ability to navigate the complexities of the Nigerian business environment and foster growth even amidst instability has been instrumental to the bank’s success. Beyond her contributions to Infinity Microfinance Bank, Oloniniyi has also actively supported the broader microfinance sector through her involvement in various committees within the National Association of Microfinance Banks, further demonstrating her commitment to the industry’s development. Her return to the board in 2024 and subsequent appointment as Chairman in 2025 underscores her continued dedication to the institution’s growth and the empowerment of MSMEs.
Paragraph 4: Aweh Ebikeme’s Extensive Regulatory and Supervisory Experience
Mr. Ebikeme brings a wealth of experience in financial regulation and supervision, garnered during his 28-year tenure at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). His career at the CBN spanned various departments, including bank examination within the Other Financial Institutions Supervision Department, branch operations, and senior executive positions. He held key leadership roles, managing strategic business units and leading several ad-hoc committees, including Banking Operations Services and the Accounts Office. His appointment as Head of the Other Financial Institutions Supervision Department in Enugu, before retiring as a Deputy Director, further solidified his expertise in regulatory oversight.
Paragraph 5: Ebikeme’s Strategic Contributions to the CBN and Corporate Governance Experience
Throughout his career at the CBN, Mr. Ebikeme played a significant role in shaping regulatory policies and ensuring the stability of the financial system. His involvement in bank examination and supervision provided him with in-depth knowledge of risk management practices and compliance within financial institutions. His leadership in various committees and strategic business units demonstrated his ability to manage complex operations and drive organizational effectiveness. His current role on the board of City-Code Mortgage Bank Limited further highlights his experience in corporate governance and strategic decision-making within the financial sector.
Paragraph 6: The Significance of the Appointments for Infinity Microfinance Bank’s Future
The appointments of Mrs. Oloniniyi as Chairman and Mr. Ebikeme as an Independent Director mark a significant step for Infinity Microfinance Bank. Their combined expertise in microfinance operations, leadership, regulatory oversight, and corporate governance strengthens the bank’s ability to effectively serve its clients and navigate the evolving financial landscape. Mrs. Oloniniyi’s deep understanding of the microfinance sector, coupled with Mr. Ebikeme’s extensive regulatory experience, provides a balanced perspective for strategic decision-making. These appointments signal a commitment to sustainable growth, robust risk management, and continued dedication to empowering MSMEs in Nigeria.
